The first full-length trailer for Netflix’s adorable Heartstopper series is here and we could not be more excited for what season two has in store.
Nick and Charlie are navigating their new relationship while Nick still struggles to come out. In case you forgot, he came out as bisexual to his mom (Olivia Coleman) during the season one finale. But is he ready to tell anyone else?
One thing is for sure; there is A LOT of kissing this season!
Tao and Elle are also exploring their relationship, AKA figuring out if they will ever be more than friends.
“I’ve liked him for so long. Sometimes I think he might like me back,” Elle says in the trailer.
“If this doesn’t work out then I lose my best friend in the whole world,” Tao confesses to Charlie and Isaac. Queue the drama!
Bonus: Tao haircut!
Tara and Darcy are also facing new challenges, but luckily, they have a great friend group to lean on when they need advice.
Isaac also seems to be figuring out his sexuality.
Plus, the entire group is off to Paris! And book readers know what that means (truth or dare time!).
Heartstopper stars Kit Connor (Nick), Joe Locke (Charlie), Yasmin Finney (Elle), William Gao (Tao), and Tobie Donovan (Isaac). Other returning actors include Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Sebastian Croft, and Rhea Norwood. Jenny Walser, Cormac Hyde-Corrin, and Olivia Colman will also star. A few new faces will join them, like Leila Khan as Sahar Zahid, Jack Barton as Nick’s older brother David, Bradley Riches as James McEwan, and Nima Taleghani as school teacher Mr. Farouk.
Season two of Heartstopper will premiere on Netflix on August 3.
Adore Delano is opening up about her gender identity. In an emotional 10-minute video shared on Instagram, Delano revealed she is trans.
“There’s been a lot of talk about my body and questions about my gender going around the internet and in my comment sections and stuff,” Delano said. “But yeah I just want to explain everything that’s been happening these last few months.”
“So yeah, I wanted to let everyone know that I am transitioning,” she continued. Delano said she kept her journey pretty “hush-hush” for the first three months to experience the beginning stages of puberty on her own terms. Ultimately she is “the happiest I’ve ever been in my adult life.”
Delano first rose to fame for competing on television reality shows like American Idol and RuPaul’s Drag Race. She placed second in season six of Drag Race after Bianca Del Rio. Her drag persona exudes a perfect fusion of punk rock edge and glamorous allure, setting her apart in the drag world. Beyond her drag career, she has also found success as a recording artist, releasing albums that showcase her powerful, expressive voice and songwriting prowess.
Delano shared that she decided to go sober two years ago, opting to confront her feelings rather than drown them in alcohol, which allowed her to move from dysphoria to euphoria.
“I looked at videos of myself and I would just drink my days away because these emotions that I didn’t want to deal with were on the backseat.”
Since beginning hormone therapy, Delano has experienced a new lease on life, feeling empowered and liberated in her true identity. She also shared her plans to undergo gender-affirming surgery in November and expressed her intention to take a step back from the spotlight at the beginning of 2024 to focus on her recovery.
“I’m probably going to look a little different. Not too different. But I’m, I’m gonna be moving into the euphoric parts of the book. You know, she’s a hardcover. But we’re, we’re going to be a New York bestseller with this body,” she said.
Feeling the Love
Delano then thanked her devoted followers for their endless support, which was seen in the comment section of the post. Drag Queens also flooded her comment section, praising her for her courage and congratulating her on coming out.
“My love! Congratulations! I’m so happy for you,” wrote Kornbread Jeté. “Enjoy this journey! And remember… warn ya friends that’s the mood swings are normal lol. It’s a right of passage and they should be honored to experience it.”
“I’m so happy for you could BURST,” added Drag Race judge Michelle Visage.
At the end of the video, Delano declared, “I am transgender, my pronouns moving from me not wanting to like offend anybody and be like, you can call me whatever you want. No, I’m taking the goddamn chariot right now. I’m going by she/her.”
In an emotional and heartfelt YouTube video, prominent TikTok influencers Nicky Champa and Pierre Boo, explained why they broke up after almost a year of marriage. Known for their transparency on social media, the couple discussed the complexities of their relationship, the strain of social media, and the reasons behind their decision to part ways.
Nicky and Pierre, who had each amassed over millions of followers on social media by sharing their life together, acknowledged the impact of their separation on their fanbase. “I think we both believe that we owed you guys this video as a closure for everyone, for us too,” Pierre stated, highlighting the close connection they shared with their followers.
Nicky and Pierre: Navigating Social Media Fame
The couple admitted the challenges they faced due to their online fame. Nicky remarked, “There’s this misconception that social media destroyed our relationship, which I don’t think is true … it complicated it.” Yet, despite the intricacies, they felt a sense of responsibility. “We felt responsible for what we’ve created, what we’ve built together,” Pierre added.
Pierre revealed his personal coping mechanism amidst this change. “I took a break from social media, that was my way to process. We’re humans, we just all cope differently,” he said. This pause provided them both space for reflection, leading to a difficult yet important decision. “We have broken up. It’s official … In order to keep growing, we’re making that decision that we both believe is positive because it is in order for us to both keep growing and thrive in this life,” Pierre confirmed.
Nicky elaborated on the growth aspect, “You know when you meet somebody, you meet them at a certain point in life … at a certain point you start to either grow even closer to each other or you go away.” He further noted the importance of prioritizing oneself, “You have to pick yourself first and I think right now we’re both picking ourselves first.”
The love and respect between them remained palpable despite their decision. Nicky emotionally thanked Pierre, “I just want to say thank you for helping me become the man that I am.” He went on to acknowledge their fans, “We owe a huge thank you, not only did you guys give us the opportunities that you gave us, but you … gave us a platform that we both very much cherished.”
Love and Respect Amidst Separation
Despite the pain of separation, they found strength in their experience. Nicky reflected, “When you reach a level of love that I feel like we found, it’s almost like you love that person enough to let them go and vice versa.” Echoing this sentiment, Pierre encouraged their viewers to be brave, “If there’s one thing about love and relationships, don’t be afraid. Jump into it because you’ll leave with so much knowledge and so much more.”
Their shared narrative served as a reminder that they, like anyone else, were susceptible to the ups and downs of relationships. Pierre concluded, “We were just a couple, couples break up. That happens and at the end of the day we were no different than any others.”
By sharing their story, Nicky and Pierre provided insights into the delicate intersection of personal relationships and social media fame. Their candid discussion offered lessons on understanding, growing, and self-love, giving their followers a poignant reflection on love, relationships, and the human need for personal growth.
Watch Nicky and Pierre’s “we broke up” YouTube Video
In a new clip from season four of Disney’s High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, Ryan East High is revisited by Ryan Evans, and his new partner (hi Scott Hoying!) is accompanying him.
The Wildcats are back in the halls of East High in the new season of the Disney+ original series, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. This includes Taylor McKessie (Monique Coleman), Chad Danforth (Corbin Bleu), Martha Cox (Kaycee Stroh) and the now out and proud Ryan Evans (Lucas Grabeel). That’s right, Ryan is queer (not that this is a surprise to anyone).
Credit: Disney Plus
Audiences first encountered Ryan in 2006 when Disney Channel aired Kenny Ortega’s musical drama High School Musical. Ryan Evans, formerly recognized as the hat-wearing, theater-loving twin brother of Sharpay Evans (Ashley Tisdale), has an alluded romance with composer Kelsi Nielsen, but the series never directly addresses his sexuality. But that did not stop fans from speculating!
I mean.. Chad and Ryan Evans had more initial chemistry than Troy and Gabriella on High School Musical 🥲 pic.twitter.com/0m4z2FkjyM
In an interview with Variety, Ortega said he did not feel like Disney was ready for a queer storyline.
“I was concerned because it was family and kids, that Disney might not be ready to cross that line and move into that territory yet,” Ortega said. “So, I just took it upon myself to make choices that I felt that those who were watching would grab. They would see it, they would feel it, they would know it and they would identify with it. And that is what happened.”
Luckily, Disney is getting queer Ryan now, ready or not!
Ryan Kisses Partner in New Disney Clip
In a clip shared by Disney on Tuesday, the OG cast of HSM appears on stage and kicks off the fourth and final season of the spin-off series with a much-needed reunion.
As the four are performing on stage, Ryan runs off to give his partner, played by Hoying, a quick smooch.
After Hoying’s character gushes about how cool it is to be there, Ryan tells him, “it means so much to me that you are here,” before going back to join his friends. Don’t mind us, we are just squealing into our pillows.
It's time for the high school reunion we've all been waiting for… 😉 Here's a sneak peek of the opening number of #HSMTMTS, streaming August 9 on @DisneyPlus! pic.twitter.com/UUhsY1RXU5
— HSM: The Musical: The Series (@hsmseries) July 25, 2023
HSMTMTS Tackles Queer Stories
This is not the first queer storyline to come from the new series, but it is one many fans have been waiting for. In a previous interview with Gayety, openly gay showrunner Tim Federle said it was very important to him to bring representation into the show.
“I think one of the fundamental experiences, especially of Gen Z and the modern experience growing up, is that identity is broadening, and that’s a beautiful thing. And I think our show really tries to tell that story proudly.”
HSMTMTS is a mockumentary drama. It sees a new set of Wildcats who actually go to East High perform High School Musical for their spring musical. The show will wrap after the fourth season premieres on Disney+ on August 9. Read the official synopsis below.
“After an epic summer at Camp Shallow Lake, the Wildcats return to East High where they prepare a stage production of High School Musical 3: Senior Year. But plans are disrupted when Principal Gutierrez announces that Disney has decided to make the long-awaited High School Musical 4: The Reunion movie on location at their beloved high school.”
Get ready to add some vibrant and empowering tunes to your summer playlist with this collection of gay songs! From Troye Sivan’s infectious pop anthems to Demi Lovato’s powerful vocals, and Sam Smith’s soul-stirring ballads, this list has something for everyone. These artists have fearlessly shared their authentic experiences and emotions through their music, celebrating love, self-acceptance, and pride. So, whether you’re dancing poolside or soaking up the sun at the beach, let these gay artists and their captivating songs be the soundtrack to your unforgettable summer adventures.
1. Troye Sivan – Rush
Troye Sivan has edged us long enough. The “Angel Baby” singer has finally released his new single and music video for his highly anticipated track, “Rush.” Fans have already named it the gay bop anthem of the summer. We second that.
Along with the video and single release, Sivan announced the title and release date of his new album, Something to Give Each Other. It will be available to purchase and stream on Friday, October 13. This is the 28-year-olds third studio album, following Blue Neighborhood and Bloom.
2. Renee Rapp – Talk Too Much
You may know Renee Rapp as Leighton Murray on The Sex Lives of College Girls or as Regina George in the Broadway production of Mean Girls. Rapp recently announced her departure from the Max drama series to focus on her music and is now gearing up to release her debut album, Snow Angel. The singer also released the second single from the album, “Talk Too Much.”
While speaking to Apple Music, Rapp gushed about the opportunity to create her own sound. “God, I love it so much. It’s like, I don’t even care,” she said. “And I don’t know if that’s because I’ve had different experiences on the other side because I’ve also had amazing experiences on the other side, but it just doesn’t f–king matter to me in music.”
3. Idman – Beach
Rising R&B sensation Idman has unveiled their highly anticipated debut EP, Risk, under the esteemed label Arista Records. The seven-track masterpiece, executive produced by the renowned Khris Riddick-Tynes from The Rascals production duo, delves into themes of heartbreak and self-discovery.
The flirtatious vibes of “Beach” explore lust and temptation, with Idman acknowledging the complexities of attraction, even when it’s not entirely appropriate.
4. Greta Van Fleet – Starscratcher
Greta Van Fleet, the rock band made up of brothers Jake, Josh and Sam Kiszka along with Danny Wagner, released its third studio album on July 21. Speaking to Billboard, Jake said the album Starscratcher is about reverting” back to rock ‘n’ roll, and what does this [genre] truly mean for our generation.”
5. Demi Lovato – Sorry Not Sorry (Rock Version)
Get ready for a whole new Demi Lovato album, the rock version. The “Still Alive” singer has recently been recording and releasing a new version of their top tracks with a more rockin’ sound. Now, the artist has announced an entire album filled with remixes titled, Revamped.
So far, Lovato has released “Cool for the Summer,” “Heart Attack,” and a killer version of “Sorry Not Sorry” featuring a guitar solo from Slash.
6. MUNA – One That Got Away
MUNA is an electrifying band delivering powerful and thought-provoking dark pop and synth-driven anthems. With deeply introspective lyrics and captivating melodies, this trio resonates with listeners worldwide, inspiring and uplifting others through their music.
Earlier this year, the band performed a new danceable, disco-pop track during their Coachella performance. Band member Katie Gavin said the song, “One That Got Away,” is about “rubbing your hot ass in the face of someone who messed up their chance of being with you.”
7. Sam Smith – Man I Am
Along with the release of the highly anticipated Barbie movie to theaters, director Greta Gerwig also helped coordinate what could be the summer album, Barbie the Album. The album contains 16 tracks all created by talented pop music icons like Charlie XCX, Dominic Fike and Lizzo.
Sam Smith’s contribution to the album is a song called “Man I Am,” which appears to be a song from the Kens perspective. In it, the doll sings about being a, “super sleazy, sexy and freaky Ken.”
Kevin Maxen, an associate strength coach for the NFL’s Jacksonville Jaguars, is bravely stepping into the spotlight to make history as the first publicly out gay male coach in the league and, seemingly, in men’s professional sports.
In a candid interview with Outsports, Maxen shared the driving force behind his decision to be open about his sexuality. “I don’t want to feel like I have to think about it anymore.” he expressed. “I don’t want to feel like I have to lie about who I am seeing or why I am living with someone else.”
Hiding His Truth
Maxen said he loathed feeling like he needed to lie about the gender of his partner because of how his peers and the media might react to it. He has been in a loving relationship with his boyfriend Nick for two years.
Credit: Instagram/@kmax3824
“You have other coaches who have significant others, and they’re talking about their significant others,” he explained. “And I felt guilty that I couldn’t do the same thing, that I was letting myself down.
“I want to be vocal in support of people living how they want to live, but I also want to just live and not feel fear about how people will react.”
Maxen’s journey to self-acceptance and his desire to live without fear of judgment have led him to share his truth. “It wasn’t until recently – and with the immense love and support of my family, my friends, colleagues and peers, and the courage and sacrifice from my partner – that I realized I have the right and responsibility to love and be loved, and that maybe sharing this will hopefully give someone else the strength to accept their own life and take control of their own story.”
Maxen’s College Years
Maxen said he struggled with his sexuality even in college but did not feel ready to come out to his teammates. Before becoming a coach for the Jaguars, he played as a linebacker for Western Connecticut State University, a Division III program. He was team captain for three seasons.
He hopes his coming out will encourage others to not determine someone’s values based on their looks, beliefs, or emotional attractions.
“As a Black Jew who has dated both men and women, who has been a strength coach at the highest level of professional football, I’ve learned that how I look, what I believe in, and especially who I am physically or emotionally attracted to should not impact the way I or other people view my worth,” he said. “And It should certainly not dictate what I feel I am capable of accomplishing.”
Though Maxen is the first male coach to come out, he is not the first player in the NFL to come out as queer. In 2021, Carl Nassib became the first active player in the league to come out as LGBTQ+. At the time, he played for the Las Vegas Raiders.
